We are delighted to share the recording of Episode 17 of Vibe with Venerables, where we get to talk “live” to Buddhist masters together.
Venerable Samten discusses the concept of empathic joy, which is the mental state of rejoicing in the good fortune of others. She emphasizes the importance of overcoming jealousy and focusing on others’ virtues and successes.
Venerable Samten shares personal anecdotes and stories of individuals who exemplify empathic joy through their acts of kindness. She also highlights the need for daily practice to cultivate this quality and the significance of recognizing and rejoicing in the kindness of others.
This episode includes an opening prayer of refuge and cultivating the four immeasurables, and end with a dedication of merit.
References
Volume 5, Library of Wisdom and Compassion In Praise of Great Compassion by The Dalai Lama and Venerable Thubten Chodron
“Empathic joy delights at the happiness and good fortune of others. Buddhaghosa says empathic joy “is characterized by bringing joy. Its function is to oppose envy, and it manifests as the abandonment of jealousy and boredom. Its proximate cause is seeing others’ success. When it succeeds, it reduces jealousy and boredom. When it fails, it produces overexcitement.”
In contrast to the misery of jealousy—thinking that we, not they, should be happy and have good opportunities—empathic joy is gladness in our own hearts that rejoices at others’ well- being.”
Voice for the Voiceless: Over Seven Decades of Struggle with China for My Land and My People by The Dalai Lama
“Finally, regardless of whatever happens, we must never lose faith in humanity. Here the key is to remain in touch with our own natural capacity to care for others, and never become divorced from our shared humanity, even in relation to those who might have done us harm. Personally, I find this basic altruistic orientation of the heart to be the source of my greatest strength and courage. Every morning when I get up, I remind myself I am just another human being, one among the billions on this earth.”
Donation
This series is freely offered by Buddhism.net. If you’d like, you may make a donation directly to Venerable Thubten Chodron’s monastery – Sravasti Abbey.
https://sravastiabbey.org/donation
We thank you for dāna, the practice of cultivating generosity.
